Woodford County Fiscal Court Honors David Sutherland and Recognizes Superintendent Lori Jones

In the heart of Woodford County, the Fiscal Court convened on August 12, 2025, under the warm glow of city hall lights, where community leaders gathered to address pressing local matters. The meeting began with a heartfelt prayer led by Pastor Harden, setting a tone of unity and purpose.

Among the notable attendees was Dr. Laurie Jones, the newly appointed superintendent of Woodford County Public Schools. She expressed gratitude for the strong partnership between the school system and the Fiscal Court, emphasizing the community's unwavering support for education. "It’s an honor to be here, and I look forward to serving as superintendent," she stated, highlighting the collaborative spirit that defines Woodford County.

The meeting took a solemn turn as the court honored the late David "Pappy" Sutherland, a former assistant chief of the Woodford County Fire Department. His 39 years of dedicated service were celebrated, with tributes reflecting on his kindness and commitment to the community. A moment of silence was observed, allowing attendees to pay their respects to a man who left an indelible mark on the county.

Following this tribute, the court recognized Johnny Mills, the recently retired deputy director of emergency management, for his 47 years of service. His leadership during crises, including major disasters, was commended, and he was encouraged to remain involved in the community. Mills expressed his gratitude, stating, "Woodford County is still home," reinforcing the bonds formed through years of service.

The meeting also addressed significant developments in local infrastructure, particularly the broadband project spearheaded by All Points Broadband. Philip Brown provided an update on the initiative, which aims to bring fiber-optic internet to 1,850 homes in the county. With a total project budget of $16.6 million, the partnership between the county and All Points Broadband is set to enhance connectivity, a crucial step for the community's growth.

In addition, Sue Finney from Hunter Town Community Interpretive Park presented an amended resolution for a recreational trails grant, which was unanimously approved by the court. This initiative aims to enhance local recreational opportunities, further enriching the community's quality of life.

As the meeting progressed, the treasurer addressed property tax estimates and budget amendments, ensuring fiscal responsibility and transparency. The court's commitment to prudent financial management was evident as they navigated the complexities of local governance.

Director Chandler concluded the meeting with updates on flood recovery efforts, highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by displaced residents. The recent approval of a USDA contract for emergency watershed protection buyouts was a beacon of hope for affected families, demonstrating the court's dedication to supporting its citizens in times of need.

As the meeting adjourned, the sense of community resilience and collaboration lingered in the air, a testament to the collective efforts of Woodford County's leaders and residents. The court's commitment to honoring its past while building a brighter future was clear, leaving attendees with a renewed sense of purpose and hope for the days ahead.